Top UK snorkelling sites

As an island nation, our coastlines are littered with sites that are ideal for snorkellers.

Here are just a few locations to take the plunge and explore with BSAC.

Lundy Island, Devon

Photo by Jane Morgan

Lundy Island is the UK's first designated Marine Conservation Zone and is home to groups of playful grey seals, or you may be lucky enough to spot a common dolphin during your dive.

Stackpole Quay, Pembrokeshire

Photo by Alex Mustard

Snorkelling at Stackpole in May and June gives you a fantastic chance to witness thousands of spider crabs scuttling across the sea floor during their mating season.

Studland Bay, Dorset

Photo by Alex Mustard

For something a little more serene, why not snorkel to find seahorses among seaweed on a warm summer's day in Studland Bay?

Basking Shark, Cornwall

Photo by Jane Morgan

Cornwall is one of the best places to see basking sharks (the Isle of Man and western Scottish waters are also great). A sunny day (usually around May to mid-July) with calm winds makes the ideal conditions to spot sharks from a coast path – as the sun brings the plankton to the surface. An experienced guide can help you spot them from the water though, so you can enjoy an amazing snorkelling encounter with these gentle giants.

Farne Islands, Northumberland

Photo by Alex Mustard

A popular scuba and snorkel spot off the coast of Northumberland, the Farne Islands are renowned for shipwrecks, seabirds and seals. Why not take a dip with these curious underwater acrobats?

The Scottish Highlands

Photo by Jane Morgan

With beaches and coastal bays to explore, the north West Highlands Snorkel Trail is run by the Scottish Wildlife Trust. This trail lets you make your own way round this lush underwater landscape.